Pachydiplax longipennis, Blue Dasher
- May 15
- 1 min read
Updated: May 17
Pachydiplax longipennis—which translates to something like thick-double-long-winged one in Latin— is a prime example of nature's mosquito management crew. The Blue Dasher will spend most of it's life in the nymph (waterborne) stage, during which time it can eat anywhere from dozens to hundreds of mosquito larvae per day (depending on how many are available at the pond buffet). Some dragonfly nymphs have been observed living up to 5 years before maturing to their relatively brief and beautiful adulthood, where their unparalleled flight abilities enable them to eat over 100 mosquitos a day.
That's tens of thousands of mosquitos eliminated before they ever take their first flight (or bite) per dragonfly.
If you are lucky enough to have a pond nearby or in your home habitat, you may be able to observe many members of the Odonata (dragonfly & damselfly) family taking care of business. Many public mosquito control campaigns include water-based insecticides to kill mosquito larvae, which also harm aquatic predators, such as dragonfly nymps, frogs, and fish.
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report!
